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I'm a sports fan and I understand that the logo is a beloved symbol to many. I also understand it is alleged to honor the brave American Indians the tribe was named after. However, I assure you, Wahoo is not an honor to actual American Indians. I know -- I'm part Cherokee.

The symbol is racist and it should go.

Take a breath and let's reason this out.

Since 1972, the American Indian Movement has asked the team's ownership to do away with the logo. And while the various owners left, Wahoo remained.

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I have a few other issues dealing with Cleveland Indians games and attendees.

I'm not a fan of people wearing cheap head dresses and painted feathers to Indians' games. These are sacred symbols in many tribes.

A person attending a Halloween party would be ostracized if they wore "black face." However, fans routinely show up to Indians games wearing "red face," beating a tom-tom or other things to make them appear "Indian."

As a sports fan, I understand it. I was saddened recently when the baseball team I follow, the Pittsburgh Pirates, decided to retire their buccaneer in favor of a plain "P."

I'm also a Steelers fan. And, if the team ever tried to change the logo, a revolt would ensue.

But those symbols are not a derogatory depiction of a race of people who have been looked down upon since Columbus missed a turn and hit North America.

Is there a solution?

I don't know.

Neither the team or a majority of the fans seem willing to part with Wahoo.

Maybe the organization could launch a campaign explaining why they want to continue to use Wahoo. Perhaps an explanation of why Wahoo is used and not a less racist depiction of an American Indian.

Do I think the logo was created as a degradation to American Indians? No.

But, do I think the symbol, under the political correctness that permeates our nation, is racist? Yes.

I don't have children, nor do I live on a reservation. But if I did, it would break my heart to try and explain to my little boy or girl why people are wearing symbols on their shirts and hats that make fun of us.

Am I starting a campaign to ax the chief? No.

There are deeper problems in Indian Country than chief Wahoo. The logo has not caused poverty, the death of elders from lack of winter heat, alcoholism and gang violence on reservations.

But Wahoo does not help the self image of a people who were around long before baseball. And don't we want all Americans to feel equally loved and honored?